The Boston Bruins, fresh off a 4-2 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets, are actively pursuing potential trades to strengthen their roster as the March 6th trade deadline approaches. The win moved Boston to 71 points on the season.

Olympic Medalists Honored

Thursday’s game marked the Bruins’ first contest following the Olympic break. Before the game, the team recognized defenseman Charlie McAvoy and goalie Jeremy Swayman, who won gold medals with the U.S. Men’s hockey team.

It’s starting to sink in now. The reaction that we’ve gotten from the people in the U.S. The second we landed down, and just the outreach of family, it’s a childhood dream reach true, said Swayman.

Honestly, it kind of feels like, in a way, like a Stanley Cup thing — like, almost like the year should be over now, McAvoy added.

Seven other Bruins who participated in the Olympics were likewise honored, including General Manager Don Sweeney, who won silver with Team Canada, and Joonas Korpisalo, who earned bronze with Team Finland.

Trade Targets Emerge

According to reports, the Bruins are in the market for a top-four, right-shot defenseman and a top-six forward. They previously pursued Rasmus Andersson, now with the Vegas Golden Knights, and continue to explore options.

Potential targets include players from the Calgary Flames and St. Louis Blues. The Bruins have had ongoing discussions with Calgary regarding several players, with MacKenzie Weegar as a possible acquisition. However, Weegar’s contract length and his full no-trade clause present potential hurdles.

The St. Louis Blues have also drawn the Bruins’ interest, with assistant GM Tim Taylor and vice-president of hockey operations Peter Chiarelli attending the Bruins’ game Thursday.

Key Players on the Radar

• Colton Parayko (St. Louis Blues): A 32-year-old defenseman with a full no-trade clause and a contract through 2030.
• Justin Faulk (St. Louis Blues): A 33-year-old defenseman signed through 2027.
• Robert Thomas (St. Louis Blues): A 26-year-old pivot who fits the Bruins’ desired profile, but would come at a significant cost.
• Rasmus Ristolainen (Philadelphia Flyers): An Olympic bronze medalist, but not considered a top priority.
• Owen Tippett (Philadelphia Flyers): A 27-year-old winger who could add versatility to the Bruins’ lineup.

Potential Departures

To facilitate potential acquisitions, the Bruins may consider moving players like Mason Lohrei and Victor Arvidsson. Lohrei, a 25-year-old defenseman, is seen as replaceable internally, while Arvidsson may need to waive his no-movement clause.

Trade Deadline Coverage

The 2026 Trade Deadline Special will be broadcast LIVE on March 6th on the Daily Faceoff YouTube channel.